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Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 3rd Gen: problems, parts and running costs

Checked: 2026-10-24

Summary

The Beosound A1 3rd Gen is a 576 g IP67 portable speaker with 24-hour battery and a replaceable battery in a modular aluminium body [2][8]. Running costs are low: no filters, pods or subscription, a free app and 5 W typical power draw, with battery replacement handled by qualified service at undocumented cost [2][4][8].

Common problems and fixes

Parts and consumables

Yearly running cost

No filters, pods or subscription are required, and the Bang & Olufsen app is free [8]. Typical power draw is 5 W (0.12 W standby) [2], so electricity use is low, but an exact annual cost depends on the local rate, which is not in the sources. Battery replacement and service are handled by qualified personnel at an undocumented cost [4].

When it is a good buy

Launch price was $249 US, £299 UK and AU$639 in May 2025 [8]. The value case is competitive at or below about $249 for buyers who prioritise build, design and app quality [8][9], and weakens above about $299 unless the premium finish and cachet are specifically required [9]. What Hi-Fi? notes the JBL Charge 6 at about $50 less and the JBL Xtreme 4 at a similar price as larger, louder alternatives [9]. Alternatives: JBL Charge 6 when maximum loudness per dollar matters; JBL Xtreme 4 when larger output at a similar price matters; the 2nd Gen Beosound A1 if Alexa voice control is needed [8][9].

Sources